This is where I talk about stuff...

In February of last year, I was called to Labs And Friends boarding facility to take pictures of several dogs. One of them was a precious Chocolate Lab named Gracelyn.

A month before, she was found on the freeway standing over her partner, Yellow Lab, Goose, who had been struck by a car. With three major pelvis fractures among the worst of his injuries, Gracelyn was going nowhere without him. A good samaritan was able to get them into her car and to the Burbank Shelter in time.

Photo credit to Julie Jones

Not only was Gracelyn protecting her friend, she had just given birth. Still lactating and bleeding, her puppies were nowhere to be found. The two had been through so much together that we knew we could never separate them. Although they did need to be apart while Goose healed. After 8 long weeks, the time finally came for these best friends to reunite. The excitement was too much for Gracelyn. She bayed and whined and squealed with delight as she smothered Goose with kisses.

Fast forward one year.

Things have changed for these sweet babies. They now reside in a happy home in Woodland Hills, CA withnewlyweds, Bill and Winni. They never once thought about separating these guys. The home I visited was so full of love and joy. The dogs I played with this day were much calmer and happier than the last time I had seen them and my eyes filled with tears knowing that this was the home in which they were meant to live.

This is Belle (formerly Gracelyn) today.

And this is Bleu (formerly Goose) today.

Still silly and playful, these guys cracked me up as they drooled for treats and dove in the pool when they were supposed to remain clean for a family portrait. I loved every second of it!

I'd have to put this day under "One Of My Favorite Days". Seeing this rescue all the way through and witnessing such a happy ending… well, as my people say, "I'm a bit ver klempt."

I can't thank Bill and Winni enough for allowing me into their happy home. And special thanks to Debra Sass for making this happen. You're a mensch. ;)